“More volunteers signed up for more shifts in one day than any of our previous years,” said Brian Burch, ArtPrize director of public relations.

Amelea Pegman, ArtPrize director of volunteer and community relations, said she’s thrilled with the response.

“Each year volunteers have stepped up to meet the growing demand and expanding audiences the event attracts. With this response, volunteers are more eager than ever to be involved in the ArtPrize event.”

The Volunteer Kick-Off Rally hosted more than 500 people at 55 Campau Ave. Earlier ArtPrize said it needs a total of 1,000 new volunteer for the fourth exhibition and competition opening Sept. 19.

The turnout has recently passed the rate of signups leading up to previous events, but many positions still are available for the 19-day exhibition and competition.

"Working as an ArtPrize volunteer has changed the way I feel about my community," said ArtPrize volunteer Ari DeJonge. "Every year I look forward to joining my friends, engaging with people and welcoming visitors to Grand Rapids”

The fourth edition of ArtPrize, created by social media entrepreneur Rick DeVos, will have 1,517 entered works of art by artists coming from 46 countries and 41 U.S. states and territories, all competing for $560,000 in cash prizes including a brand new Juried Grand Prize worth $100,000.